“Most homes have so many small gaps and cracks it’s essentially like you’re leaving a window open all year long,” said Mana Haeri of Energy Trust of Oregon.
The good news? Taking some quick and easy steps like caulking, weatherstripping and adding insulation can help you save a lot on your energy bills, she said.
These fixes also help you be comfortable when you’re inside, and protect your home from the elements. “That can be really important along the coast where there’s likely more moisture year-round than in other parts of the state,” said Haeri.
Energy Trust is a Portland-based organization that helps utility customers in the state benefit from efficient energy use and generating renewable energy.
Here are Energy Trust’s recommendations that benefit every household in four seasons, but especially when the outdoor temperature rises in warmer months and drops in winter.
- Sealing air leaks and insulating your home can reduce cooling and heating costs while making your home more comfortable all year long.
- You can seal air leaks by adding caulk, spray foam or weatherstripping around drafty doors, windows and other areas.
- For example, when the caulk around your windows dries up, it can crack and allow cold air in during the winter.
- The glass of a fixed window can also become loose in its frame over time. This can create drafts or small air leaks. Using a clear silicone caulk, you can easily create a smooth, clean seal.
- If you have them, close or put back exterior storm windows during colder months, which adds an extra layer of insulation.
- You can also check for and seal holes or cracks around exhaust fans, vents and fireplaces. They’re also often hidden in attics, basements and crawlspaces.
- Also, check the fireplace. If you’re not using your fireplace, make sure the damper is closed. An open damper allows air to escape up the chimney.
Upgrading insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways you can lower your energy bills. The experts at Energy Trust compare insulation to a sweater that you can wrap around your home. In the summer, it can keep the cool air in and the warm air out.
Insulation also cuts the amount of time your heating or cooling system needs to run to maintain a comfortable temperature. That means your furnace or air conditioner lasts longer and saves you money.
Energy Trust is currently offering a special bonus incentive on attic insulation.
More incentives: Last year’s deadly heat dome across the Pacific Northwest motivated many people to improve the way their home can stay cooler, while still being energy efficient.
Cash rebates and other incentives can reduce the sting of energy-saving upgrades, like adding air conditioning.
Read Chill out, save energy, get cash incentives: How to cool your home during hotter summers to learn how to receive incentives to replace old windows, save on a smart thermostat and be rewarded for installing air conditioning.
For more information on types of insulation, ways to weatherize your home and energy-saving DIY tips, visit energytrust.org/residential/DIY.
— Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072
